Isabelle Drake

Not Home for the Holidays is the reverse-Hallmark Christmas movie where the country girl finds her city HEA. The week before Christmas, quirky, country girl Emma Lopez is in New York City, aiming to win a social media contest for small-business owners. Minutes before her high-stakes interview, an impulsive, sizzling kiss under the mistletoe with a handsome businessman turns into an even bigger surprise. She goes all-in enjoying the holiday excitement of the city and shaking up a certain dapper businessman. Thanks to a snowstorm, her phone, and a couple more kisses, she counts herself a winner. Then, her high-spirited attitude leads to an unexpected opportunity of a lifetime, one she’s certain she can’t accept. Excerpt: The elevator is straight ahead, flanked by a row of gray and white marble columns. Garlands and potted poinsettias are everywhere. The greens are wrapped around the columns, the pots are beside the elevator doors and placed in exact locations along t...